Committee sends RS 31970 to print after presentation on residential chicken ownership

Senator Tammy Nichols, who represents District 10, presented RS 31970 to the Senate Agricultural Affairs Committee and asked that the proposal be printed for a public hearing. "Basically, this legislation supports urban agriculture in Idaho by setting just clear minimum standards for residential chicken ownership," Nichols said during the committee meeting.

The measure, as explained by Nichols, would allow property owners to keep up to four chickens on parcels of 0.2 acres (two tenths of an acre) while preserving local control through reasonable rules. "This legislation promotes food security, protects property rights, and excludes multifamily and areas already covered by agricultural zones," Nichols said.

Committee members asked clarifying questions. Senator Taylor asked for the definition of "small scale livestock" to avoid allowing larger animals in residential areas; Nichols said the term typically covers animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs and chickens and that the code already contains a definition. Senator Leahy said he supported printing the RS and moved that the committee send RS 31970 to print. The motion received a second and carried by voice vote.

Nichols noted the proposal would not preempt cities, counties or homeowners associations from imposing stricter rules; she specifically said HOAs could retain authority to prohibit roosters. She told the committee she requested the RS be printed "for a print hearing."